Time for Cook to stamp mark on England side, says Vaughan

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Frank Dalleres

FORMER England captain Michael Vaughan has called on beleaguered current skipper Alastair Cook to use the fallout from the Ashes whitewash in Australia to impose his own style on the team.

Vaughan has rejected claims that England’s playing staff need an overhaul following their 5-0 drubbing, but believes it is time for Cook to stamp his authority on the side’s approach.

“I wouldn’t change too much personnel in the players. I don’t think there are too many out there who would make a huge difference,” said Vaughan.

“I think there needs to be one or two new members to the backroom team. But I think it’s just a change of cricket.

“I think this is the time Alastair Cook goes to [coach] Andy Flower and says ‘I believe this is the brand of cricket that will take England to No1 in the world. How can we beat South Africa? Not, how can we beat the No4.’

“Once you decide on the brand of cricket, then you pick the personnel to play that brand. I think this is Alastair Cook’s moment to say: ‘This is how I want to play’.”

Coach Andy Flower has unequivocally stated his intention to stay on in charge for a sixth year despite the chastening series Down Under.